Governor Patrick Morrisey signed House Bill 4087 on Mar. 17, establishing the West Virginia–Ireland Education Alliance to expand academic partnerships and strengthen ties between West Virginia and Ireland.
The new alliance aims to create more opportunities for students, educators, and institutions in both regions. Governor Morrisey said, “This legislation strengthens an already important relationship between West Virginia and Ireland by opening new doors for our students, educators, and institutions.” He added, “Expanding these partnerships will help create new opportunities for learning, workforce development, and cultural exchange that benefit our state for years to come.”
The initiative builds on a relationship formalized in 2023 through the West Virginia–Ireland Trade Commission by adding a dedicated focus on education. The alliance will support collaboration between colleges and universities in both areas through student and faculty exchanges as well as joint academic programs.
Under the plan, the Higher Education Policy Commission will select one four-year institution and one two-year institution in West Virginia to partner with higher education institutions in Ireland. These partnerships are expected to support exchange programs and collaborative educational initiatives. They may also be eligible for grants of up to $50,000 if funds are appropriated by the Legislature.
The West Virginia–Ireland Education Alliance is intended to strengthen academic, cultural, and workforce connections between the two regions while encouraging shared learning and international engagement.
